More than a game for umpire Javin Thomas

16 February 2026

By ALEXANDRA BULL

Umpiring simply started out as a way for Javin Thomas to earn some extra money, but it quickly turned into something much more.

Javin, who hails from Sri Lanka, first picked up boundary umpiring at the start of 2025, when his wife saw a flyer at Flinders University and brought it home for him.

“During the first few practices, it was difficult for me to understand the rules, but the coaches were very happy to teach me,” Javin said.

“I started watching a few games on YouTube to figure out what to do, but one major thing was I fell in love with the game.”

His love and commitment to umpiring also earned him the 2025 Adelaide Footy League Best First Year Boundary Umpire award.

Javin, who is also completing an MBA in Project Management, said he enjoys the inclusive umpiring environment, and the fitness he gained from it.

“I came into a new country, and AFL is a big part of Australian culture,” Javin said.

“It gave me something to do on the weekend, and it has given me something to learn – it kept me going mentally, and physically, it pushed me to be fit.

“I have played rugby and basketball, but you don’t run as much as you do in AFL. When you are done with a game, at a minimum, you are running 12km, so that’s been a challenge, but it’s been a growth journey for me.”

For those who are thinking of taking up umpiring, the boundary umpire only had words of encouragement.

“Just do it – anyone is welcome,” Javin said.

“Coming from Sri Lanka and joining umpiring… it’s inclusive and open to new talent.

“It’s a lot of fun; you meet new people every week.

“My advice to anyone is just don’t think twice and if it’s for you, you can continue but if it’s not for you, at least you have tried something new.”

The next 2026 Foundation Umpiring Course will be held at Tea Tree Gully Football Club this Sunday, 22 February, from 9am to 11am.